Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has urged government workers to stay committed to their duties while taking the necessary precautions against the extreme heat currently affecting many parts of the country. He stressed that prolonged exposure to excessive heat could lead to serious health problems, including heat stroke, and called on the education and labor sectors to adapt to the situation accordingly.

Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, made the remarks at a gathering of barangay officials from Antique on Tuesday in Iloilo City. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing public health amid the rising temperatures.

“My primary concern are the safety, health, and welfare especially of our students and workers,” he said. “There are areas right now that are extremely hot, and this is not ideal nor conducive for our students’ learning. It’s very difficult in this weather. The heat index is high. Here in Iloilo, it reached 37 degrees Celsius. It’s dangerously hot.”

Given the extreme conditions, Go highlighted the importance of taking preventive measures. He urged people to stay hydrated and called on government agencies to make the necessary adjustments to ensure the well-being of workers and students.

“When it’s extremely hot, I remind our fellow citizens to drink water. I also hope the DepEd (Department of Education) can adjust, especially if online learning is really needed… perhaps that’s something they can consider. The health of every Filipino is my priority,” he said.

For employees, particularly those who work outdoors or in physically demanding jobs, Go suggested flexible working arrangements to reduce exposure to the heat.

“For those working, especially outdoors, I hope there can be adjustments to their working hours. Let’s prioritize the health of every Filipino because that is equivalent to the life of each Filipino,” he said.

Citing advice from the Department of Health (DoH), Go warned of the serious health risks caused by the extreme heat, such as heat stroke, heat cramps and other heat-related illnesses.

“According to the DoH, extreme exposure to intense heat can cause various illnesses. Some of these can be dangerous, like heat stroke, which can be fatal. You can get heat cramps and you know that can lead to heat stroke. Anyway, stay safe. Prevention is always better than cure. Let’s be careful, fellow citizens,” he said. TDT